Ixviii 
LIFE OF WILSON. 
pearance of his friend, animated with impetuous zeal ; and to hu- 
mour him granted his request. A proof was taken, but fell far 
short of Wilson’s expectations, or of his ideas of correctness. How- 
ever, he lost no lime in conferring with Mr. Bartram, to whom lie 
wrote as follows : 
“ Nov. 29, 1805. 
“I have been amusing myself this some time in attempting 
to etch ; and now send you a proof-sheet of my first performance 
in this way. Be so good as communicate to me your own correc- 
tions, and those of your young friend and pupil. I will receive 
them as a very kind and particular favour. The drawings which 
I also send, that you may compare them together, were done from 
birds in full plumage, and in the best order. My next attempt in 
etching will perhaps be better, every thing being new to me in this. 
I will send you the first impression I receive after I finish the plate.” 
In a short time another plate was prepared and completed 
with the despatch of the former. In fulfilment of his promise to 
his friend, he transmits a proof, accompanied with the following 
note : 
Mr. Wilson’s affectionate compliments to Mr. Bartram ; and 
sends for his amusement and correction another proof of his Birds 
of the United States. The colouring being chiefly done last night, 
must soften criticism a little. Will be thankful for my friend’s ad- 
vice and correction. 
“ Mr. Wilson wishes his beloved friend a happy new-year, 
and every blessing.” 
Saturday^ January Atthy 1806. 
The design is then traced, and cut through to the copper, with an instrument termed a point. 
A bank of wax is now raised around the plate, and aquafortis poured into the enclosure, which 
acid eats into the copper only where the point had past. The length of time requisite for the 
successful action of tlie aquafortis, must be determined by the judgement of the operator. 
